April 30, 2014

The Clinton mode of production, then, is running for office or serving in office. That is the material basis for the Clinton Foundation and the Clinton lifestyle and the whole Clinton institutional structure. In order to keep this mode of production from breaking down, the Clintons–-one of them, at any rate–-must be at least potentially in the running for a powerful office at all times. If Hillary doesn’t really want to run, she can’t admit it in public. She must maintain the facade of candidacy until the last minute–or else the Foundation will have to cut back and Ira Magaziner might need to find a job. If it looks like Hillary might not run–perhaps because of health reasons–the model would predict that another Clinton, presumably daughter Chelsea, would start making noises about launching a political career. Voila! Data point confirmed. The theory is off to a good start. …

I think their staying in politics is a form of protection. As long as one of them has a potential political role, any criticism can be deemed 'politics' and not valid.

In ancient Rome, Consuls could not be taken to court for anything they did in office, while in office. After their term was up, they could be. To get around this, Consuls maneuvered to get themselves appointed Proconsul (governor) of a province, thus extending their immunity. This could go on forever.

I think the Clintons want to go on forever.

BTW, one of the things Consuls would be taken to court for was expropriating private property and giving it to their cronies. Some things never change.

Indeed. This political legacy thing is a lot like Hollywood families. Old actors from past hit films that appear in bit parts for life. They have talented kids, with access to education and networks that put them on a track for success, etc. Reinforces the old saying that politics is showbiz for ugly people...

This is why the Obama post-presidency will be so interesting/frustrating. Even though they will be showered with money for book deals, speaking gigs, etc, they still won't come close to the payday Clinton and Gore enjoyed. I would not be surprised if their anger at that plays out in public with increasing frequency.

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